The drive will be held at UAB Hospital North Pavilion February 18-23, 2013, and then at UAB Highlands Hospital on Feb. 26, Feb. 28 and March 1.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham will hold a major blood drive in February to help replenish supply following a national shortage of O-negative blood and apheresis platelets.

The drive will be held at UAB Hospital North Pavilion February 18-23, 2013, and then at UAB Highlands Hospital on Feb. 26, Feb. 28 and March 1. While all blood types are needed, the shortage of O-negative is the most severe.

Eligible donors of blood or platelets can make an appointment to donate at either drive at www.givelife.org, using sponsor code “UAB,” or 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Donors will be eligible for prize giveaways. Validated parking is available at the Fourth Avenue parking deck for North Pavilion. Parking is free at UAB Highlands. Donors should bring a valid photo ID.

Nationally, UAB is one of the largest users of blood supplied by the Red Cross. Donors can give blood up to six times per year, every eight weeks.